Brett James
Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame member Brett James tragically died in a private plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday (Sept. 18). He was 57.
With more than 500 songs recorded throughout his career, Brett celebrated 27 No. 1s, a Grammy win for his mega Carrie Underwood hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and was named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2010. His songs have been cut by country artists like Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and Rascal Flatts, to pop stars Bon Jovi, Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis.
He was born Brett James Cornelius in Columbia, Missouri, but grew up in Oklahoma. His parents were musical—his father was a physician and a singer and his mother was a classically-trained pianist. Brett played guitar, piano, saxophone and drums, and sang in church and with a touring youth group
He was also a good student. After graduating from Baylor University, he started medical school at the University of Oklahoma but eventually left to pursue his musical passion in Nashville in 1992.
He first began his journey in music as a recording artist, spending several years signed to Arista/Career and releasing his self-titled debut album in 1995. After three singles and two music videos failed to gain traction on the charts, the label let him go—a setback that left him ready to give up music altogether and return to medical school in 1999. He re-enrolled in Oklahoma, but just two days into classes, he got word that Faith Hill had recorded his song “Love Is a Sweet Thing.” Within the next seven months, 28 more of his songs were recorded by country artists, pulling him firmly back into Nashville’s music scene.
Reinvigorated, Brett signed with Arista again and notched top 40 hits with 2002’s “Chasin’ Amy” and 2003’s “After All.”
Brett’s legacy as a professional songwriter kicked off with his co-written Jessica Andrews’ hit “Who I Am,” which became his first No. 1 in 2001. “Blessed” by Martina McBride quickly followed. Then came Rascal Flatts’ “Love You Out Loud,” Josh Gracin’s “I Want to Live” and Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker’s “When the Sun Goes Down.” The chart-topping “Jesus Take The Wheel,” sung by a new American Idol star Carrie Underwood, earned Brett the 2006 Grammy for Best Country Song, as well as the 2005 ACM Single of the Year, the 2006 ASCAP Country Song of the Year and the 2006 NSAI Song of the Year.
Brett became a first-call songwriter on Music Row, with such hits as “Cowboy Casanova” by Underwood, “The Truth” by Jason Aldean, “It’s America” by Rodney Atkins, “Summer Nights” by Rascal Flatts, “The Man I Want To Be” by Chris Young, “Bottoms Up” by Brantley Gilbert and “I Hold On” by Dierks Bentley, among many more. He had many more hits with Chesney, including “Out Last Night,” “Reality,” “Trip Around the Sun,” “This Is Our Moment,” “Flip-Flop Summer,” “You Save Me” and “Knowing You.” He also had success in other genres, like Kelly Clarkson’s chart-topper “Mr. Know It All” and Paulina Rubio’s latin hit “The One You Love (Todo Mi Amor),” as well as songs recorded by Bon Jovi, Steven Tyler, Jessica Simpson, Chicago, Daughtry and The Backstreet Boys.
In addition to his success as a songwriter, Brett also produced records including We Weren’t Crazy by Josh Gracin, Why Wait by Kristy Lee Cook, Do You Know by Jessica Simpson, Up All Night by Kip Moore and more.
Brett served as Owner/CEO of Cornman Music, a successful music publishing company in Nashville. He was selected for induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, and released his self-written album titled I Am Now the same year.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brett was a fixture in the Nashville music community. He frequently played songwriter rounds, mentored younger writers, educated the public about the challenges facing professional songwriters and devoted his time to industry organizations and charity events. Friends and colleagues often described him as generous with his talent and knowledge, always eager to lift up the next generation.
It was revealed following the crash that Brett was flying with his wife, Melody Carole Wilson, and step daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson, who also perished.
Mitchell Tenpenny’s 10Penny Fund & ACM Lifting Lives Partner To Bring Cancer Support To Industry Members
/by Lorie HollabaughMitchell Tenpenny. Photo: Zach Pigg
Mitchell Tenpenny’s 10Penny Fund and ACM Lifting Lives are joining forces to bring support to music industry members impacted by cancer.
The 10Penny Fund will make a $100,000 contribution to assist in 10 grants of $10,000 to individuals who require help covering essential medical bills, everyday household needs, and mental health support through ACM Lifting Lives’ Diane Holcomb Emergency Relief Fund. Those in need can go to acmliftinglives.org or email liftinglives@acmcountry.com to seek help and find additional information.
Tenpenny will also host his Cornhole Tournament for the fourth consecutive year on Oct. 7 on Music Row, with all proceeds going to ACM Lifting Lives to amplify the impact of support to country music professionals affected by cancer. Those wishing to participate can sign up here to play, and organizations can sponsor a board. For more information on the tournament or if you want to support, email kristen@redlightmanagement.com and Allie.vidunas@
“I have been too close to cancer too often,” says Tenpenny. “I lost my dad in 2014 and my mom battled breast cancer a few years ago. Through their illnesses, I discovered how important mental health support was and how, along with good doctors and treatment plans, that factored into their cancer journey.”
“Too many of us know the gravity of a cancer diagnosis, and often, the toll it takes on the mental health of both the patient and their loved ones goes unseen,” adds Taylor Wolf, Executive Director of ACM Lifting Lives. “Mitchell Tenpenny is helping rewrite this narrative with his commitment and generosity to supporting those navigating cancer journeys. His care for others embodies the heart of the Diane Holcomb Emergency Relief Fund and we are grateful that Mitchell’s generosity will ensure a few more families don’t have to worry about the financial burden as they go through treatment.”
Mitchell created his 10Penny Fund in 2018 from his personal experience and a sincere desire to provide inspirational support to cancer patients beyond the traditional medical treatment. The 10Penny Fund invests in sustainable and meaningful programs that motivate patients, encouraging healing, and build a community of support. For more information or to donate go to 10PennyFund.org.
Parker McCollum Reveals 2026 Tour Dates
/by LB CantrellParker McCollum
Parker McCollum will hit the road early next year, kicking off his self-titled 2026 tour on Jan. 23 at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas.
Fresh off the release of his highest debuting album, Parker McCollum, via MCA, the reimagined tour incorporates the new songs fans have eagerly connected with including “What Kinda Man,” “Killin’ Me,” “Big Sky,” “Solid Country Gold” and many more, alongside all the chart-topping hits.
Joining McCollum on this 14-date run, produced by Emporium Presents, are rising stars Max McNown, Jake Worthington, William Beckmann, Jackson Wendell, Tyler Halverson and Laci Kaye Booth.
Tickets will be available starting with a Citi pre-sale starting Sept. 23. Additional pre-sales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning Sept. 26 at 10:00 AM local time at ParkerMcCollum.com.
McCollum will be touring throughout the rest of 2025, including a special New Year’s Eve performance at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas on Dec. 31.
2026 Tour Dates:
1.23.26 | El Paso, TX | Don Haskins Center
1.24.26 | Glendale, AZ | Desert Diamond Arena
1.29.26 | Edinburg, TX | Bert Ogden Arena
1.30.26 | Corpus Christi, TX | Hillard Center Arena
1.31.26 | San Antonio, TX | Frost Bank Center
2.5.26 | Oxford, MS | SJB Pavilion at Ole Miss
2.6.26 | Lexington, KY | Rupp Arena
2.7.26 | Salem, VA | Salem Civic Center
2.12.26 | Winston-Salem, NC | Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum
2.13.26 | Auburn, AL | Neville Arena
2.14.26 | Savannah, GA | Enmarket Arena
3.26.26 | Estero, FL |Hertz Arena
3.27.26 | St. Augustine, FL | St. Augustine Amphitheater
3.28.26 | St. Augustine, FL | St. Augustine Amphitheater
Secretly Distribution & Third Man Records Announce Global Distribution Deal
/by Lorie HollabaughJack White‘s Third Man Records has entered into a new worldwide distribution deal with Secretly Distribution.
Secretly Distribution will now handle physical and digital music distribution, digital and retail marketing, and technological support for all of Third Man Records’ upcoming releases. The just-announced new albums from Snõõper and The Belair Lip Bombs will be Third Man’s first new releases through Secretly.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Third Man Records into the Secretly Distribution family of label partners,” says Rich Thane, Associate Director of Artist & Label Strategy, Secretly Distribution. “As two fiercely independent, artist-first companies, our shared values and ethos make this partnership a perfect fit. With their iconic roster and passionate team, we’re excited to amplify Third Man’s global reach across both physical retail and digital landscapes.”
“Third Man is very happy to be welcomed into the Secretly Distribution family. We have so much respect for their work; they lead creatively with artists’ and labels’ vision at the forefront,” adds Ben Swank, Co-Founder, Third Man Records. “We’re excited about Third Man’s future working alongside the Secretly Distribution team, and proud to be included in their roster of legendary and heavyweight independent labels.”
At home in Nashville, Third Man Records houses a record store, novelties lounge (featuring the Third Man Record Booth), label offices and distribution center, photo studio, and the world’s only live venue with direct-to-acetate recording capabilities, while Detroit’s Third Man Records Cass Corridor features a record store, novelties lounge, in-store performance stage, record booth and vinyl record pressing plant, currently celebrating 10 years as a retail location. Additionally, in London, Third Man has a retail store, office, and a live venue, The Blue Basement.
Through its deal with Secretly Distribution, Third Man Records joins a roster of Secretly affiliates such as Dead Oceans, drink sum wtr, Ghostly International, Jagjaguwar, Saddest Factory Records, Secretly Canadian and Numero Group, as well as label partners including Sacred Bones, Captured Tracks, Run For Cover, Rhymesayers, Chrysalis, A24 Music, Merge Records, Joyful Noise, Father/Daughter, Big Crown, Colemine, Jazz Is Dead, Oh Boy Records and more.
Morgan Wallen’s ‘I Got Better’ Remains Atop MusicRow Radio Chart
/by John Nix ArledgeMorgan Wallen remains atop the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart for the third week with his track, “I Got Better.”
The song comes off of Wallen’s recent, fourth studio album I’m The Problem, and was written by Wallen, Michael Hardy, Chase McGill, Blake Pendergrass, Ernest Smith, Charlie Handsome and Joe Reeves.
Wallen wrapped up his 2025 “I’m The Problem Tour” in Edmonton, Alberta on Saturday night. During its run, he donated a portion of every ticket sold to his Morgan Wallen Foundation, which supports youth music and athletic programs and gives communities access to essentials in times of crisis.
“I Got Better” currently sits at No. 7 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
KC Bruner Inks With Electric Feel
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Leo Katz A&R, Callie Mangrum, KC Bruner, Chandler Nicole Sherrill Senior Director, Creative.
KC Bruner has inked with Electric Feel.
An Iowa native, Bruner has built a devoted following on TikTok and earned a spot on the cover of Spotify’s Fresh Finds Country playlist, spotlighting her latest single, “Bigger Fool”. Her previous collaborators include Cooper Alber, Jack Schrepferman, Jesse Bluu, Madison Spratley, Andrew Bolooki and more.
“When I first met the team at EF, I instantly felt at home and knew they were my people. I couldn’t be more excited to share the music I’ve been working on with the world,” says Bruner.
“KC is an incredibly gifted songwriter and artist, and we’re thrilled to officially welcome her to Electric Feel. We are proud to support her as she continues to grow and shape the future of country music,” adds Austin Rosen, Founder & CEO of Electric Feel Entertainment.
Bruner is set to play her first headline show in her hometown of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on Nov. 15.
Coleman Jennings Inks With Big Loud Texas & Mercury Records
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R, front row): Seth England (Partner/ CEO, Big Loud), Coleman Jennings, Reed Turner (Manager, True Grit Management) and Patch Culbertson (EVP / GM, Big Loud). (L-R, back row): Sara Knabe (SVP of A&R, Big Loud Records), Stacy Blythe (EVP of Promotion, Big Loud Records), Austen Adams (formerly COO, Big Loud; currently President, Warner Chappell Music Nashville), Wes Donehower (SVP of A&R, Big Loud Records + Mercury Records), Brianne Deslippe (SVP of Marketing, Big Loud Records) and Jon Randall (Co-Founder / President of A&R, Big Loud Texas). Photo: Brayln Kelly Smith
Coleman Jennings has signed a record deal with Big Loud Texas and Mercury Records.
Jennings combines Western folk, honky tonk, outlaw and Americana into his artistry, while also blending in elements of old time and bluegrass. His music often has whimsy lyrics, swift guitar playing and gritty vocals. Jennings was inspired by roots poet Blaze Foley to reach into country music, igniting his anti-establishment nature.
“I’m so excited to have Coleman Jennings join the Big Loud and Mercury Records families,” says Wes Donehower, SVP of A&R, Big Loud Records and Mercury Records. “Coleman is a special young artist with an old soul and a lot to say. The music he and Dave have made is incredible and we’re looking forward to being a part of his team for years to come.”
His major label debut “Head Spinning” is out today (Sept. 19). The track, solo-penned by him, showcases an emotional rush over the sound of rock. The track is the second song Jennings ever wrote, and was produced by Dave Cobb.
“I was always scared of the whole record deal thing, but Big Loud Texas and Mercury made me feel understood,” shares Jennings. “They are good people who want to serve the artist, and they allowed me the opportunity to make the record I’d always dreamed of with Dave Cobb. The first single, ‘Head Spinning,’ is just the beginning of what I think will be a unique album. Huge thanks to Dave and the whole Big Loud / Mercury Team.”
“’Head Spinning’ takes me on a trip down classic vinyl memory lane,” adds Big Loud Texas Co-Founder / President of A&R Jon Randall. “I cannot wait for fans to hear this. We are so honored that Coleman has allowed Big Loud Texas to be a part of his journey.”
Jennings performed at AmericanaFest last week as part of Big Loud’s Skydeck takeover. Tonight (Sept. 19) he will join Charles Wesley Godwin at White Oak Music Hall in Houston, followed by shows with Ray Wylie Hubbard and William Clark Green.
BREAKING: Nashville Songwriter Hall Of Famer Brett James Passes
/by LB CantrellBrett James
Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame member Brett James tragically died in a private plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday (Sept. 18). He was 57.
With more than 500 songs recorded throughout his career, Brett celebrated 27 No. 1s, a Grammy win for his mega Carrie Underwood hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and was named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2010. His songs have been cut by country artists like Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and Rascal Flatts, to pop stars Bon Jovi, Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis.
He was born Brett James Cornelius in Columbia, Missouri, but grew up in Oklahoma. His parents were musical—his father was a physician and a singer and his mother was a classically-trained pianist. Brett played guitar, piano, saxophone and drums, and sang in church and with a touring youth group
He was also a good student. After graduating from Baylor University, he started medical school at the University of Oklahoma but eventually left to pursue his musical passion in Nashville in 1992.
He first began his journey in music as a recording artist, spending several years signed to Arista/Career and releasing his self-titled debut album in 1995. After three singles and two music videos failed to gain traction on the charts, the label let him go—a setback that left him ready to give up music altogether and return to medical school in 1999. He re-enrolled in Oklahoma, but just two days into classes, he got word that Faith Hill had recorded his song “Love Is a Sweet Thing.” Within the next seven months, 28 more of his songs were recorded by country artists, pulling him firmly back into Nashville’s music scene.
Reinvigorated, Brett signed with Arista again and notched top 40 hits with 2002’s “Chasin’ Amy” and 2003’s “After All.”
Brett’s legacy as a professional songwriter kicked off with his co-written Jessica Andrews’ hit “Who I Am,” which became his first No. 1 in 2001. “Blessed” by Martina McBride quickly followed. Then came Rascal Flatts’ “Love You Out Loud,” Josh Gracin’s “I Want to Live” and Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker’s “When the Sun Goes Down.” The chart-topping “Jesus Take The Wheel,” sung by a new American Idol star Carrie Underwood, earned Brett the 2006 Grammy for Best Country Song, as well as the 2005 ACM Single of the Year, the 2006 ASCAP Country Song of the Year and the 2006 NSAI Song of the Year.
Brett became a first-call songwriter on Music Row, with such hits as “Cowboy Casanova” by Underwood, “The Truth” by Jason Aldean, “It’s America” by Rodney Atkins, “Summer Nights” by Rascal Flatts, “The Man I Want To Be” by Chris Young, “Bottoms Up” by Brantley Gilbert and “I Hold On” by Dierks Bentley, among many more. He had many more hits with Chesney, including “Out Last Night,” “Reality,” “Trip Around the Sun,” “This Is Our Moment,” “Flip-Flop Summer,” “You Save Me” and “Knowing You.” He also had success in other genres, like Kelly Clarkson’s chart-topper “Mr. Know It All” and Paulina Rubio’s latin hit “The One You Love (Todo Mi Amor),” as well as songs recorded by Bon Jovi, Steven Tyler, Jessica Simpson, Chicago, Daughtry and The Backstreet Boys.
In addition to his success as a songwriter, Brett also produced records including We Weren’t Crazy by Josh Gracin, Why Wait by Kristy Lee Cook, Do You Know by Jessica Simpson, Up All Night by Kip Moore and more.
Brett served as Owner/CEO of Cornman Music, a successful music publishing company in Nashville. He was selected for induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, and released his self-written album titled I Am Now the same year.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brett was a fixture in the Nashville music community. He frequently played songwriter rounds, mentored younger writers, educated the public about the challenges facing professional songwriters and devoted his time to industry organizations and charity events. Friends and colleagues often described him as generous with his talent and knowledge, always eager to lift up the next generation.
It was revealed following the crash that Brett was flying with his wife, Melody Carole Wilson, and step daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson, who also perished.
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Charley Pride Lost Tapes Are ‘Finest Of His Career’
/by Robert K OermannCharley Pride. Photo: Ben De Rienzo
This edition of DISClaimer covers country sounds, but takes a few detours along the way.
For your listening pleasure, we have a reissued blues classic by B.B. King, a disco tune from Dustin Lynch, a revival of a Buddy Holly standard by Joe Ely and a romping rock & roll outing by the Music City blues-rock band Piper & The Hard Times. The last-named is our DISCovery Award winner.
This week’s Disc of the Day also colors outside the lines a bit. It is a masterful tribute to the music of the great Brook Benton by our late country superstar Charley Pride. It is absolutely essential listening.
JENNA PAULETTE / “Steady”
Writers: Jenna Paulette/Rhett Akins/Will Bundy; Producer: Will Bundy; Label: Leo33
– The upbeat, rolling-tempo groove is irresistible. Paulette’s cowgirl delivery conveys country sincerity in every note of this romance. Fiddle and steel abound. Highly recommended.
CHRIS YOUNG / “Brake Lights”
Writers: Chris Young/Hillary Lindsey/Jesse Frasure/Ty Graham; Producers: Andy Sheridan, Chris Young; Label: Black River Entertainment
– He’s begging to get her back. The thunderous production is too busy and muddy. The rock guitar solo at the coda goes on forever.
TIGIRLILY GOLD / “Call It Home (A Song for North Dakota)”
Writers: Josh Jenkins/Kendra Slaubaugh/Krista Slaubaugh/Pete Good; Producers: Austin Goodloe, Pete Good; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Olson and Slaughbaugh are the new spokespersons for North Dakota tourism. They salute their home state with this lively ditty that celebrates its natural beauty. Bop and dance along to this open-sky ode.
CHARLEY PRIDE / “Endlessly”
Writers: Brook Benton/Clyde Otis; Producers: Bob Pickering, Charley Pride; Label: Music City Records
– Tomorrow (Sept. 19) would have been Brook Benton’s 94th birthday. I have long believed that he was an unheralded country hero. The pop-soul baritone recorded two country albums, immortalized Tony Joe White’s “Rainy Night in Georgia” and wrote great songs that were covered by country stars. Benton and/or his co-writer Clyde Otis were responsible for “It’s Just a Matter of Time” (Randy Travis), “The Ties That Bind” (Don Williams). “Endlessly” (Sonny James) and more. The last named is the title tune of a long overdue Brook Benton tribute album. After Charley Pride’s death in 2020, these tapes were found, revealing that the superstar was definitely appreciative of Benton’s talent. His vocal performances on these classics are arguably the finest of his career. Backed by the Dallas Symphony, Pride glides through the lushly melodic “Endlessly” and dips into its bass notes with delight. Every track on this collection is a mini masterpiece. Also check out his stunning version of “The Ties That Bind.” The collection drops tomorrow (Sept. 19).
LORI McKENNA / “Tied to You”
Writer: Lori McKenna; Producer: Ben West; Label: CN Records
– McKenna holds three Grammys for Best Country Song. Her works have been sung by Taylor Swift, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert and other greats. She is also a helluva singer, herself. She wrote this about one of her kids moving far away, but it’s an anthem for everyone missing a loved one. The harmony vocal is by singer-songwriter Medium Build. I have such a crush on this woman.
JASON ALDEAN / “How Far Does a Goodbye Go”
Writers: John Edwards/John Morgan/Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: Broken Bow Records
– It’s a lovelorn power ballad with some nicely poetic word play. Radio ready.
PIPER & THE HARD TIMES / “Good Company”
Writers: Al Green/Steve Eagon; Producer: Tres Sasser; Label: Hard Times Records
– This is a Nashville-based blues-rock ensemble. Paced by Piper Green’s gruff, soulful vocal delivery, it kicks up some classic rock & roll dust on the rousing title tune of its new CD. For its ballad skills, check out the nostalgic “Those Days.”
THOMAS RHETT & JORDAN DAVIS / “Ain’t a Bad Life”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Blake Pendergrass/John Byron/Mark Trussell/Thomas Rhett; Producers: Mark Trussell & Paul DiGiovanni; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– In praise of a simple country life, coming from two bona fide good ol’ boys. Warm and cozy. Hit bound.
CHASE McDANIEL / “Die Trying”
Writers: Chase McDaniel/Lindsay Rimes/Seth Ennis; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: Big Machine Records
– Intensely romantic, with a soaring guitar solo in mid song that leads to the song’s pounding crescendo. Highly listenable.
B.B. KING / “The Thrill Is Gone”
Writers: Rick Darnell/Roy Hawkins; Producer: Bill Szymczyk; Label: MCA
– Tuesday (Sept. 16) marked the 100th birthday of blues titan and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member B.B. King. MCA Records will be celebrating his centennial all year long. The legend’s entire catalog will be reissued on all digital and physical platforms. To kick things off, the label is remastering and reissuing King’s signature 1970 hit. It still sounds awesome.
HANNAH ELLIS / “Officer Down”
Writers: Hannah Ellis/Justin Ebach/Steven Dale Jones; Producer: Josh Kerr, Justin Ebach; Label: Curb Records
– This gentle, heartfelt ballad is about her cousin, a police officer who was killed in the line of duty. Ellis originally issued on an indie label in 2017. Curb has touched it up to mark the 10th anniversary of cousin Daniel’s death. Touching and impactful.
DUSTIN LYNCH & MC4D / “Home to You”
Writers: Chris Drake/Dustin Lynch/Matt Drake/Richard Brandon Davis/Trent Tomlinson; Producer: MC4D; Label: BBR Music Group/BMG
– Interesting. It’s a country vocal on top of a high voltage, electronic-dance-music production. Refreshingly different, I guess.
JOE ELY / “Raining In My Heart”
Writers: Boudleaux Bryant/Felice Bryant; Producer: Radar Initiative; Label: Rack ‘Em/Thirty Tigers
– Singer-
2025 IBMA Momentum & Industry Award Winners Announced
/by Lorie HollabaughThe International Bluegrass Music Association has revealed the 2025 IBMA Momentum Award and Industry Award winners.
The Momentum Awards, which focus on artists and industry professionals who are in the early stages of their bluegrass music careers. were presented at a ceremony last night (Sept. 17) at the Chattanooga Convention Center. The Momentum Awards are part of the five-day IBMA World of Bluegrass, in partnership with Chattanooga Tourism Co. and Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, which runs Sept. 16-20.
2025 IBMA Momentum Awards:
Band of the Year – Mountain Grass Unit
Industry Involvement – Austin Scelzo
Instrumentalist of the Year (Two Awarded) – Kyser George, Rainy Miatke
Vocalist of the Year – Ali Vance
Mentor of the Year – Rick Lang
Additionally, the recipients of the 2025 IBMA Industry Awards, presented by Benwood Foundation, were revealed, recognizing outstanding work in non-performing industry categories. The Industry Awards were presented at a ceremony today (Sept. 18) at the Chattanooga Convention Center in Chattanooga.
2025 IBMA Industry Awards:
Writer Of The Year
Dan Miller
Photographer Of The Year
Madison Thorn
Sound Engineer Of The Year
Stephen Mougin
Event Of The Year
Earl Scruggs Music Festival
Mill Spring, North Carolina
Broadcaster Of The Year
Daniel Mullins
Real Roots Radio
Walls of Time Bluegrass Podcast
Front Porch Fellowship
Xenia, Ohio
Songwriter Of The Year
Jon Weisberger
Graphic Designer Of The Year
Gina Dilg
Liner Notes Of The Year
Earl Jam – Tony Trischka
Written by Neil V. Rosenberg
The 36th Annual IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, presented by Get It Played, will take place tonight (Sept. 18) at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium, and IBMA Bluegrass Live!, a two-day festival of live performances and fan experiences, will take place Sept. 19-20.
Music Fights Fraud Alliance Launches Partner Program
/by Lauryn SinkMusic Fights Fraud Alliance has launched its Partner Program. Participants will be able to have the opportunity to share knowledge and resources while contributing to MFFA’s projects and anti-fraud initiatives. The program’s inaugural partners are ACRCloud, Trolley, Vobile and Audible Magic. These organizations will work closely with MFFA and its 28 member companies. Partnership is open to any entity within the music industry or adjacent sectors that aligns with MFFA’s mission.
“Streaming fraud is a complex and growing challenge that no single entity can solve alone,” says Michael Lewan, Executive Director of the Music Fights Fraud Alliance “With our new Partner Program, the Music Fights Fraud Alliance is bringing together companies across the ecosystem who are eager to share ideas and solutions that protect the entire industry. We are thrilled to work alongside ACRCloud, Trolley, Vobile and Audible Magic in support of our mission, and look forward to the innovative solutions we’ll create together.”
“In the fight against streaming fraud, collaboration is our greatest ally,” shares Andreea Gleeson, CEO of TuneCore and Chair of the MFFA Board. “Through the MFFA’s new Partner Program, we are creating additional opportunities for the music industry to share resources and work together to create a healthier, more sustainable industry on behalf of legitimate artists around the world.”
“Audible Magic is proud to join the Music Fights Fraud Alliance Partner Program to help advance a fair and trustworthy ecosystem. For over twenty five years we’ve worked directly with rights holders to protect their artists using our highly scalable and robust content identification and rights management solutions, and we look forward to collaborating with our peers to combat fraud and strengthen trust across the digital music landscape,” adds Kuni Takahashi, CEO, Audible Magic.